Given the restrictions placed against him in response to sexual harassment claims, it would seem impossible for Undersheriff Ken Roberts to continue to carry out his day-to-day duties his duties as second-in-command of the Sheriff’s Office in an effective manner.

Roberts was first placed on paid administrative leave in November, 2017 when two women accused him of inappropriate conduct.

A subsequent investigation confirmed one allegation as sexual harassment, and classified the other as inappropriate and unprofessional.

In December, Roberts was placed on 10 days unpaid suspension.

When he returned to work, his office was moved out of the main headquarters and into the Training Academy and was removed from supervisory duty until he completes sexual harassment training.

Now, the female employee whose allegations against Roberts were substantiated as sexual harassment has obtained a temporary restraining order against him, demanding that he be prohibited from contacting her in a manner and remain at least 100 yards away from her at all times, including at work.

The temporary order of protection was filed on the same day that Sheriff Enrique “Kiki” Vigil announced that Roberts would be returning to work.

“I started panicking, I got emotional and fearful,” the woman alleged in her petition. “I still fear that he will come and talk to me to intimidate. My sleep pattern has become worse because of the fear I have to live with.”

The woman said she had been advised by her attorney to seek the protection.

It will remain in place until Feb. 9, when Roberts and the woman are scheduled to appear at a hearing where it will be determined if the order will be extended.

According to Vigil, when asked about the allegation, Roberts told the investigator that he did not remember the incident, but added that his coworker would not have any reason to lie.

Roberts is entitled to due process, as is any county employee with similar allegations against them.

But when it comes to remaining as undersheriff, we just don’t see how he can continue to do that job.

The order of protection should only impact Roberts. The female employee should continue her same duties in her same office, just as she has always done.

That would mean Roberts would be barred from being in the same building as the men and women he has been charged to lead. How could he possibly be effective?

And, even if those logistic concerns could be overcome, there is the larger of issue of should a man who has been confirmed to have committed sexual harassment in his role as undersheriff, against a female employee of the department, be allowed to continue in his leadership role.